Cakile maritima

RHS Plant Profile
sea rocket

Other common names

common sea rocket, hegydd arfor

Plants for pollinators
Annual Biennial Cactus Succulent

A succulent annual, with branched stems about 15–45cm long bearing thick fleshy pale grey-green leaves. Small, 4-petalled flowers to 2.5cm across, are white or pale lilac-purple, from early to late summer, followed by short, stubby green seed capsules maturing to brown with two yellow or brown, smooth seeds

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Sand
Moisture
Well–drained or Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Brassicaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Arabia, N Am., Med., Aus.

How to Grow

Cultivation

Sea rocket grows on coastal foreshores in sand dunes and in shingle or gravel where its long taproot can anchor the plant and stabilise the soil. It is tolerant of salt spray and short bouts of seawater inundation

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free